SINGAPORE, 20 December 2024 – The Philippines successfully concluded its one-year tenure at the helm of the Counter-Terrorism Information Facility (CTIF) at Changi Naval Base in Singapore. This leadership role, assumed on 31 January 2024 from LTC Mohamad Heikal bin Mohamad Hairi of Malaysia, signifies the Philippines’ dedication to regional security and counter-terrorism efforts.

In a formal Change of Leadership Ceremony held this morning, CDR Ronnie G. Nagal PN, who took over the CTIF Head position from Colonel Joel F. Castro PA, in June 2024,  officially handed over the leadership responsibilities to his Singaporean counterpart, LTC Derek Teo, current CTIF Chief of Staff, who will now spearhead the CTIF as its new Head, beginning today, 20 December 2024. 

Philippine Ambassador to Singapore Medardo G. Macaraig graced the ceremony as Guest of Honor. The event was also attended by Head Joint Intelligence Colonel Kam Kai Qing of the Singapore Armed Forces, who served as Witnessing Officer for the ceremony. The ceremony was marked by the presence of representatives from the Philippine Embassy, the Office of the Defense and Armed Forces Attaché and the CTIF.

This year holds particular significance as it marks the 55th anniversary of bilateral relations between the Philippines and Singapore. In September 2022, the Philippines and Singapore signed the CTIF Arrangement during the State Visit to Singapore of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. This agreement underscores the Philippines’s unwavering commitment to enhancing cooperation with Singapore and other partner nations in the fight against terrorism.   END